We dive into a comprehensive discussion on mental health, substance use disorders, and the nuances of psychiatric treatment with Dr. Matthew Mosquera, an addiction psychiatrist and the medical director of Alcohol and Drug inpatient treatment at McLean Hospital in Boston. (He also happens to be Elara's brother.) Our conversation spans a wide range of topics, from the personal journey that led Dr. Mosquera into psychiatry, the distinction between various mental health professionals, to the intricacies of treating substance use disorders and the potential of ketamine in psychiatric treatment.
Dr. Mosquera shares insights into his approach to treating patients, emphasizing the importance of understanding the individual reasons behind substance use and the complex relationship between mental health issues like depression and substance use disorders. He highlights the critical role of language and terminology in treating use disorders, advocating for a shift from the stigmatized term "addiction" to "use disorder" to better capture the clinical nuances and reduce stigma. We also ask him about Naloxone (Narcan), and if he believes we should all carry it.
The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities in the current mental health landscape, including the impact of social media, the importance of resilience and grit, and the evolving understanding and treatment of ADHD. Dr. Mosquera offers practical advice for maintaining mental health, such as the significance of exercise, sleep, and managing what's within one's control.
Throughout the discussion, Dr. Mosquera provides valuable perspectives on the therapeutic relationship, the process of finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, and the importance of being open to change while being mindful of the limitations and potential side effects of medications like stimulants for ADHD.
Resources:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/
Thich Nhat Hanh's Book on Anger: https://www.amazon.com/Anger-Cooling-Thich-Nhat-Hanh/dp/157322937
Arthur Brooks' column in The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/arthur-c-brooks/
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On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
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